Arsenal open contract talks with defender

Arsenal start their Champions League campaign on Thursday when they face Atalanta. 

The Gunners will travel to Italy just days after a crucial 1-0 win over fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby on Sunday.

Defender Gabriel’s second-half header earned Mikel Arteta’s side a crucial three points at the home of their rivals, keeping Arsenal just two points behind Premier League champions and early frontrunners Manchester City.

Now, it appears that Gabriel is in line for a new contract at The Emirates, according to Football Insider.

The report claims that the Gunners have opened talks with the 26-year-old about an extension to his current deal, which is set to expire in just under three years.

Central defender Gabriel joined the Gunners from French top flight side Lille four years ago, and has since played more than 170 times for the North London side.

Gabriel could soon sign a new contract with Arsenal

Over the past few seasons, he has formed a strong partnership with Frenchman William Saliba at the heart of Arteta’s defence.

This season the pair have played every minute of Arsenal’s league campaign, scarcely put a foot wrong, conceding just once in their four Premier League matches until now.

It is claimed that talks between the player’s representatives and the club are currently at a very early stage, with no concrete discussions having taken place so far.

The report also claims that Arsenal are hoping to tie all of their key players down to long-term contracts, with Gabriel very much considered to be a star at The Emirates.

Previously, Gabriel had played for a number of clubs including Troyes and Dinamo Zagreb.

He has also been capped nine times by Brazil at senior level, scoring on one occasion.